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Live Blog: Montana State at Idaho

Montana State opens its 2016 season with a road game against former and future Big Sky rival Idaho, currently in the FBS' Sun Belt Conference. Follow along and join the discussion with the Bozeman Daily Chronicle, live from the Kibbie Dome in Moscow, Idaho.

John Walker and Bryson McCabe with consecutive PBUs to get Montana State's defense off the field early in the second. One thing noticeable so far: MSU DBs are in the area. LBs have had decent coverage, too. Secondary coach Gerald Alexander preaches playing the ball.

by Parker Gabriel9/2/2016 1:52:23 AM

MSU opens with golden opportunity at own 48, whole Vandals side seemingly tackles Newell for no gain on first #msubobcatsFB

- Bryson McCabe can bring the wood. He's applied a couple of big hits, including the one that forced the fumble late in the second quarter. MSU's been aggressive on defense, but still is missing quite a few tackles and has let a couple of controllable plays rupture for big gains.

- Chris Murray is going to be a factor this season. MSU burned his redshirt less than a quarter into the season. We'll ask after the game, but that was almost certainly planned. If the young man is going to be involved, expect it to be in a significant way.

- It appeared Idaho might run away with this one when the score went to 17-7 midway through the first quarter, but the Bobcats buckled down and have kept within striking distance. Idaho, and particularly quarterback Matt Linehan, has left some yards on the field, however. If he's sharp in the second half, the Vandals are going to be OK.

- Other notable young players that have played for MSU: WR Kevin Kassis, LB Josh Hill, DE Marcus Ferriter. Don't believe we've seen frosh RB Anthony Pegues yet. It's been the Chad Newell show in the Bobcats backfield, with occasional touches for Nick LaSane.